Last Friday in Burundi's capital: Bujurumba, 3 protesters were killed while 35 others (Red Cross) were injured in the demonstrations that followed President Nkurunziza's decision to go for a third term in office.
The people have said his decision negates the constitution and also the Arusha peace agreement that ended the civil war in 2005 which put the limit at two terms.
His supporters however are of the opinion that the limit does not yet apply to him as his first term in office was not by popular vote but by parliamentary election.
Over twenty thousand Burundians have fled to Rwanda while another 7000 fled to the Democratic Republic of Congo in anticipation of pre electoral violence.
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The presidential election is set for June 26 and the protests began on the 26th of April a day after the president declared his intentions to contest in the upcoming elections.
The president has warned that street protesters will be severely dealt with.
Barely 10 years ago, Burundi ended a 12 year ethnic based civil war which spanned from 1993 to 2005.
This current crisis appears to be political and not ethnic as the incumbent president and his opposition are from the same ethnic group. Ethnic undertones however have not been completely ruled out.
The use of live ammunition against protesters has been reported and this is not acceptable.
In a civil society the people have the right to peaceful demonstrations to express their dissatisfaction over an issue.
Furthermore, over 300 arrests have been reported since the protests began last week.
This trend is disturbing to the International community, and all eyes are on Burundi, to see the steps that the President will take to restore peace to his nation.
We believe the people have the right to peaceful protests and the right to air their views and opinions without fear or intimidation.
This is a shout out to the President to listen to the people and respect their rights in the days ahead.
It is common knowledge that in the past, African leaders have failed to relinquish power peacefully.
This however is changing, and we expect to see further improvement in this area.
The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura Burundi on the 26th of April released the statement that :
"Violent suppression of dissent and intimidation of citizens who have a right to protest peacefully is unacceptable in a nation that wishes to strengthen its democratic transition from a post-conflict society. "
We would love for the leadership of Burundi to follow the example recently set in Nigeria by President Jonathan Goodluck.
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